Chelsea v Barcelona player ratings

Chelsea were unable to keep Barcelona at bay as they were held to a 1-1 draw in the knockout stages of the Champions League. Here’s how we rated each Blues player in a thrilling match at Stamford Bridge.

Thibaut Courtois: 6

Was barely called into action but caught well and one shanked clearance apart, the Belgian took no chances with the ball at his feet. He had no hope with Lionel Messi’s goal.

Cesar Azpilicueta: 7

Azpilicueta was as solid and dependable as ever, organising and cajoling those around him throughout and defending without alarm – until he misjudged at the crucial time, charging out of defence to try to intercept a misplaced pass for the equalising goal.

Andreas Christensen: 6

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One rushed first-half pass saw him concede a corner and his careless pass led to the equaliser after the break, but Christensen was otherwise impressive both in his defensive duties and with ball at feet.

Antonio Rudiger: 8

The big German was solid and dependable and fully justified his inclusion ahead of Gary Cahill. He also used the ball effectively, playing a couple of wonderful crossfield passes and making a couple of surging runs.

Victor Moses: 7

Moses once again demonstrated how much he has improved defensively but, although always willing, his attacking forays were understandably restricted.

N’Golo Kante: 8

Covered a ridiculous amount of ground without seeing a great deal of the ball, but his energy and workrate were vital in getting Chelsea back in the game after a difficult start.

Cesc Fabregas: 7

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Was a peripheral figure as Barca dominated early on but his experience shone thereafter, becoming an increasingly influential figure as he calmed those around him and somehow found some time on the ball. Unfortunately he was involved in Barca’s leveller, hesitating when the ball was played across by Christensen.

Marcos Alonso: 7

Had a first-half free-kick comfortably saved and played a key role in Chelsea’s increasingly brave pressing game.

Pedro: 7

A typically tireless performance from the former Barca winger whose selfless defensive work, tracking back and closing down allowed Willian and Eden Hazard greater freedom.

Willian: 9

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Chelsea’s goalscorer could easily have ended up with a hat-trick, with two stunning first-half strikes smacking the upright. He was a constant threat and the best attacker on display from either side.

Eden Hazard: 8

Hazard was cute in his hold-up play and smart in possession, but his role as the ghost striker meant he had to put the team first – which he did impressively.